emoticon

Definition

Utilization of symbols included on a keyboard or keypads to form digital facial expressions on digital devices. People use these to emphasize how they are feeling instead of having to type out the feeling. For example, John may text to Susie that he is feeling said and will include :-( to show his expression (when viewed sideways, it appears to be a two eyes, a nose, and a frown). Emoticons are popular with instant and text messaging programs. Microsoft has even programmed some of their Microsoft Office products including Word and Outlook to display a simple illustrated facial expression when a user types in the corresponding sequence of symbols.